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Motivational Speaker Energizes Suffield Community

In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, motivational speaker and educator Harvey Alston, spoke to the Suffield community during chapel on January 20, 2014. Harvey is one of the most in-demand speakers in the country and after today's presentation, it's easy to understand why. Wearing a tuxedo and shouting at the top of his lungs, he had students laughing and clapping within the first five minutes of his talk.

A former head football coach and teacher, Harvey has presented to over 4,000 high schools and empowers students to take action. Harvey talked about the people he's known who have overcome great obstacles in their lives, such as renowned athletes Wilma Rudolph and Jesse Owens, actor James Earl Jones, and the late philanthropist and founder of Wendy's, Dave Thomas. Each one persevered because they set their sights on a goal: to be the best at what they do.

Now at 67 years old, Harvey says he continues to wake up each day and proclaim that "today is the best day of my life." He encouraged the Suffield community to do the same... and to borrow his formula for success: "It's takes Heart, Attitude, People, Pride, and You to be happy." He asked students to be mindful of their actions, to visualize what they want to do in life, and to always strive for the best. Harvey even named his enterprise Best, Inc. As he ad-libbed during his presentation, "Best is a piece of chocolate with caramel inside."